Pastor and Grandson Double Duty

In the fall of 2002, my father-in-law passed away.  I was responsible for the funeral and also for trying to comfort my wife and her family.  Following the graveside service, I found myself standing beside my wife after delivering the benediction when I noticed her father’s family.  They were still seated in front of the casket when I realized that normally the pastor usually gives some final encouragement at this time.  It then occurred to me that I WAS the pastor and immediately went to them to offer more condolences and words of peace and comfort.  It was hard pulling that double duty, but fulfilling.

My grandfather died the week after Thanksgiving in 2009.  He had a stable church home and a wonderful pastor who ministered to him until the end.  I was grateful to share in the service, but not in the same types of pastoral responsibilities that Rev. Honea did.  I was able to be a minister and also be ministered to.

Here we are in the Winter(?) of 2012.  Both of my mom’s parents are in terrible health after suffering debilitating strokes.  It has been years since they have been able to attend church and while they have had a pastor friend stop by every now and then there hasn’t really been a church supporting them.  I know that in mere days, or weeks, or months that I will be called upon(and am ready, willing, and able) to perform the ministerial duties for the funerals.  It’s an honor to be involved.  Their pastor friend will share as well, but I know that my family will look to me for strength.  I’m also thankful everyone in my family will have their own pastor there to walk with them through this time of grief.

I try to put some words to paper daily in preparation.  It’s easy for a pastor to speak well and memorialize people who’s faith has been passed down as far as their great-grandchildren.  It’s easy for a grandson to remember fond stories of trips to Cherokee and Johnny Carson jokes my grandmother didn’t get.  Doing both…that’s tough and requires a unique strength.  Luckily, that passed that down too.